Schiedel Chimney Systems, marked its 50^th year with a visit from Sharon Hodgson, the local MP to Schiedel's factory in Washington, Tyne & Wear. Sharon visited Schiedel on Friday September 8, took a tour round the factory and officially cut the ribbon on some new state-of-the-art machinery. 

Schiedel Chimney Systems has expanded over the last half century to offer contemporary, high-performance chimney and flue solutions which are approved for use in modern eco-design houses, such as timber-framed and Passivhaus buildings. 

The company's early roots, however, lie in Germany with the far-sighted and energetic entrepreneur, Friedrich Schiedel, who began producing double-walled chimney systems from his former concrete factory in 1947.  

Following a period of European expansion during the early 1960s, the company ventured out of mainland Europe for the first time in 1967, establishing its name in the UK and Ireland when it purchased steel chimney system specialists, Rite Vent Group.  Such an extensive history has provided invaluable experience, allowing Schiedel to move forward in the modern world and thrive in the face of industry and technological developments.

Although the Schiedel Chimney Systems of today is one of the leading manufacturers and a world brand, it is still a family-run organisation with an employee focussed attitude at its core.  Washington's multiple long standing employees serve as testament to Schiedel's commitment to nurturing what it considers its greatest asset - people.

The power of people also extends to the installers that use its products. Schiedel offers some of the longest warranties on the market, technical information through its online manuals and App, plus solid fuel, HETAS courses from its state-of-the-art training centre. 

The factory tour was conducted by Barrie Wray, Plant Manager. Sharon and her husband, Alan, were presented with a commemorative Schiedel pen with the 50 year anniversary logo on.